NMDWS prepared to process Unemployment Insurance claims quickly for workers affected by wildfire

Wednesday, June 19, 2024

NMDWS prepared to process Unemployment Insurance claims quickly for workers affected by wildfire

The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS) is currently waiting for federal approval and guidance for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) to be offered to workers whose employment has been affected by the Southfork or Salt fires. Individuals may apply for Standard Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits now, a first step in the DUA process.

DUA updates and UI information are available on the NMDWS website https://www.dws.state.nm.us/DUA.

“Our Department is prepared to take Unemployment Insurance claims and help individuals affected by this tragic fire quickly,” said NMDWS Secretary Sarita Nair. “The process to receive DUA benefits is for individuals to first apply for standard Unemployment Insurance benefits, and they can do that now through our website and during business hours through our call center. If the claim is determined ineligible, once a Federal Disaster Declaration is made, those individuals may be able to qualify under DUA.”

To apply for UI benefits, individuals may do so online anytime 24/7 at https://www.jobs.state.nm.us or by phone at 1-877-664-6984, Monday through Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm.